Tariq Tarey is the Senior Director of Refugee Services at Jewish Family Services and a documentary photographer and filmmaker committed to storytelling and advocacy through the visual arts. His films, including Women, War, and Resettlement: Nasro’s Journey and Silsilad, have been broadcast on PBS and screened at festivals such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Milwaukee Film Festival, and New York African Film Festival. Silsilad has been widely recognized for its honest and moving portrayal of the human experience.
As a photographer, Tariq’s work has been featured in exhibitions including Forlorn in Ohio, Bhutanese-Nepali Neighbors, and From Struggle to Strength. Bhutanese-Nepali Neighbors was exhibited at the Ohio History Museum in 2017, and From Struggle to Strength was shown at the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio in 2024. Both exhibitions received the Ohio Museums Association Best of Show award. His work was also featured internationally at the Havana Biennale in 2024.
Tariq is currently developing a book project highlighting the everyday lives, resilience, and cultural richness of Cubans. In addition to his artistic work, he serves as a Trustee on the Columbus Metropolitan Library Board and speaks widely on refugee integration across Europe and North America.
Through his photography, films, and community leadership, Tariq continues to use storytelling to amplify underrepresented voices and strengthen community connections.